Queen of my Heart by Nikki Lynn Barrett

When the next King of country music offers to take you under his wing, what's a girl to do?

Pinch herself, of course. Repeatedly. Then take the offer!

Quinn Winters is tired of being the actress known for most killed off characters. After discovering her love of music when her last role portrayed a country singer on a daytime soap opera, she's making a much needed change in life. Quinn is unprepared for the demands and expectations needed to succeed in Music City. One pleading call from her sister puts her in an all too familiar, but unwanted position.

Five years ago, Tucker McGinnis auditioned for a reality singing show, never expecting to win. His sudden fame and popularity comes as a major surprise. After a multi platinum debut, his second album is suffering the dreaded sophomore jinx. His musical muse becomes elusive when guilt plagues him over an accident which affects his family. He is blown away by Quinn when he overhears her audition at his record label, singing his most personal song.

An attraction builds, and a connection through music is formed. But when life gets in the way, Tucker makes another offer - A temporary marriage which will benefit both of them, until things become too real.

Two souls destined for the stage, two hearts blending together to create beautiful music as individuals, but even better as country music's next power couple- if they can shed the images of who they used to be.

“No. I can't let that happen. She's my niece. I want to take her. Tell me what I have to do to become her guardian,” Quinn pleaded. “Winnie said she'd sign over custody if need be, so what do I do?”

“Quinn, how can you do that? Aren't you in Nashville trying to get a record deal? That's not the life Piper needs. She needs stability.” The woman's tone was sympathetic. Her gaze landed on Tucker. Something flickered in her eyes. Probably recognition.

“I'll sell the property Grams left me. It'll give me the money to take care of Piper and hopefully get something going for Winnie when she gets clean.” Desperation laced her voice. Tucker could tell by the stricken tone that she didn't want to go that route.

He had no idea what made him do it, especially since Quinn never agreed, but Tucker spoke without thinking on it too much. “She has stability. She's kinda living with me already. She's also started a job with me for the past few months, and we've become close. I- I know it's a short time, but I've been thinking about asking her to marry me. Is that stable enough?”

When Quinn gasped, Tucker stepped closer and closed his fingers over her cold, clammy ones. Forgive me, darlin'. I couldn't help myself. Again he'd made a ballsy, unlike him move. “I'm sorry to ruin the surprise, but you know I'll do whatever I can for you, and especially Piper.” His voice wavered. No taking the words back now. “I don't want to you give up that property. We've talked about this, darlin'” Did he pull off the act?

“Yes, ma'am. I heard Quinn's voice one day, and I couldn't stay away. We kept our relationship quiet for personal reasons, of course. Whatever we need to do in order to get Piper in Quinn's custody, please let us know. We'll make it all official right away if we have to. Quinn and Piper will be well cared for. The two of them won't have a thing to worry about.”

Dig a hole, why don'tcha?

The case worker attempted to keep her composure. Tucker noted the relief in her eyes. “I'll go get Piper so you can see her. We'll need to get official documentation and permission from your sister. If she'll sign over guardianship to you, we'll have this taken care of within a few days. If she refuses...” She started to walk away. “Oh, and Quinn? Congratulations. I'm so happy you're happy. Good for you.”

“You and me. Outside. Now,” Quinn muttered through clenched teeth. He followed her to the front porch. “What the hell were you thinking? Do you know how much worse you made this? Seriously, Tucker!”

I'm an avid lover of books. I've been writing as far back as I can r​​emember, completing my first "book" by fifth grade in one of those one subject spiral notebooks. I have a passion for music, photography, jewelry and all things creative. I live in Arizona with my husband and son, but dream of being somewhere much colder and stormier. For now, I'll have to live that life through my characters and stick it out with the summer heat.